Graduate Degrees Offered at CEE

Expect to be challenged. Expect to excel.

The School of Civil and Environmental Engineering offers four master's degree designations and a PhD option that results in a doctorate of philosophy. These are the launching points for a wide variety of academic and career destinations.

CEE graduate students choose uniquely challenging paths toward their intended degrees.  Most will work within one of six affinity groups, each of which conducts a variety of interdisciplinary research initiatives within the School, across campus, and with other universities around the world. This interdisciplinary approach to research attracts a broad array of corporate, governmental, and research foundation support. Students can also gain valuable work experience through graduate assistantships in CEE, the Georgia Tech Cooperative Education Program and the Georgia Tech Research Institute.

Masters of Science (MS)

Master of Science degrees include advanced study in a professional discipline in civil and environmental engineering. The designation of the master’s degree depends on personal preferences, undergraduate training, and field of study. An optional research experience may be included.

MS degrees are generally completed in a one-and-a-half year period if research is not requisite for the degree or an offer of financial support. A two-year period is typical of MS degree programs if research activity is included.

• Master of Science in Civil Engineering (MSCE) Available to students in all CEE disciplines with a BS in Civil Engineering.
• Master of Science in Environmental Engineering (MSEnvE) Available to students in the Environmental Engineering discipline who have a BS in any accredited field of engineering. A thesis or research project is required.
• Master of Science in Engineering Science & Mechanics (MSESM) Available to engineering and physical-science majors with interests in fundamental mechanics and engineering science.
• Master of Science (MS) Available to all qualified students.

Find out more about the specific MS requirements

Find out more about the specific MS Student Forms

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

The highest degree offered and requires the demonstration of advanced mastery of a research topic. A depth of knowledge in a major and minor area of study is required. A Qualifying Examination is required for a student to become a PhD candidate. Successful defense of a comprehensive dissertation is the ultimate degree requirement.

Students may enter the PhD program directly following completion of a BS degree or an MS degree at Georgia Tech or another college/university. BS students with a long-term goal of pursuing a PhD degree are urged to apply as PhD applicants and to document their interests in this degree within their application.

Find out more about the specific doctoral degree requirements

Find out more about the specific doctoral degree forms.